What is Blizzard Ball?

Blizzard Ball is an annual co-rec, invitational softball tournament.

What is Blizzard Ball’s purpose?

It’s a charitable event that benefits youth programs and the food bank.

When is Blizzard Ball held?

One weekend, every year in lat Jan or early February. Most games are played on Saturday with the final games finishing up on Sunday.

Who can participate?

We welcome anyone who can put a team together. Usually, a business or organization sponsors a team but the only requirements are you must have a minimum of 5 adult men and women (a couple of alternates are suggested). An application form is posted on this site a couple of months before Blizzard Ball takes place. To be notified of this posting, please sign up for out mailing list and you’ll be emailed a reminder.

How much does it cost?

In 2010, the fee is $200.00 per team (about $20.00 per player). Each participant gets a tee shirt and team packet with coupons and discounts from our sponsors.

What’s with the wild outfits?

Every year the Blizzard Ball committee picks a theme for Blizzard Ball and your team is required to dress according to the theme. Blizzard Ball is a fun, charitable event and encourage your effort. We suggest you review the photo page for a look at previous years costumes.

What about the weather?

Blizzard Ball has been held in snow, rain, mud, wind, sunshine and a combination of all and that’s what makes it so unique and fun!

How can we play softball in that kind of weather?

A combination of softball and dodgeball rules are used. Instead of a standard softball, a small rubber dodgeball is used. Click here to see the 2010 rules and info.

Where is Blizzard Ball held?

In recent years, the games have been held at the softball fields at Fort Missoula.

Do you have to be from Missoula?

Nope. We have numerous teams that travel from all over the Northwest to participate and local hotels offer discounts for our out of town guests. We’ll list the participating hotels a month or two prior to the next Blizzard Ball on this website.

Can I sponsor or contribute without putting a team together?

Yes. Corporate sponsors receive advertising on our tee shirts and game packets. Please email or phone our chairperson for information.

What can we expect as a team?

Have fun! Games generally begin about 9:00am on Saturday and your team’s captain will be notified in advance of your game start times. Dress in costume, as appropriately as you can for the weather conditions. Concessions are available at the field. Blizzard Ball has numerous volunteers to assist you.

What’s the schedule?

Friday evening, prior to Blizzard Ball, your team packets and tee shirts will be available at Red’s Bar in downtown Missoula for pick up. Saturday, games begin at 9:00am and run through the late afternoon You’ll be notified of your start times. A post game party is usually held at The Elbow Room. Sunday, those who make it to the finals will begin at 9:00 am and finish up mid afternoon.

What does the champion get?

Bragging rights and a trophy.

I want to find out more about Blizzard Ball, who can I speak with?

Click here for our contact page.